SUBMITTED BY Timbo

November 6, 2003 — Matrix fans turned out in droves, according to reports, for the opening night of "The Matrix Revolutions".

"We've had tremendous crowds, and early (box office) numbers are very strong," said Dick Westerling, spokesman for the No. 1 U.S. theater chain Regal Entertainment Group. .

Dan Fellman, film distribution chief for Warner Bros. studio, the unit of Time Warner Inc. that makes and markets the "Matrix" movies, said a first-day box office estimate would not be ready until Thursday.

Fellman added, however, that his phone had been ringing off the hook since the curtain rose on "Revolutions" at 9 a.m. EST with tales of sold-out crowds. He said several theaters reported selling $40,000 worth of tickets before noon.

"That is a staggering number for a Saturday before noon, let alone a Wednesday," Fellman said.

A spokesman for No. 2 U.S. theater chain AMC Entertainment Inc. reported similarly crowded theaters in the morning and said many of Wednesday night's screenings were sold out in advance.

Read the full article at the link below.